Used in Thai or Vietnamese salads .
This is a versatile ingredient, most commonly rice noodles or sometimes glass noodles, that forms the base of refreshing, tangy salads like Thai Yum Woon Sen or Vietnamese Gỏi. It's typically tossed with fresh herbs, vegetables, a protein like shrimp or chicken, and a zesty, savory dressing. The dish is a staple across Southeast Asia, celebrated for its balance of flavors and textures.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is generally low in fat and provides a moderate amount of carbohydrates for energy, with the protein content depending on the added meat or tofu. It's a good source of fiber and various vitamins from the fresh herbs and vegetables, with a typical serving ranging from 200 to 350 calories.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Carbs | 40 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 750 mg |
| Vitamin C | 30 mg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Calcium | 60 mg |
| Potassium | 300 mg |
| Vitamin A | 80 µg |
| Folate | 50 µg |
| Manganese | 0.8 mg |
| Selenium | 12 µg |
Per 1 serving (about 300 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
The magic of these salads lies in the dressing—a symphony of fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and chili that creates a perfect balance of salty, sour, sweet, and spicy. Nutritionally, the fresh herbs like cilantro and mint are not just garnish; they are packed with antioxidants and contribute significantly to the dish's unique flavor profile.
